Get your Campervan or Motorhome ready for Spring

As winter loosens its grip and the travel season approaches, spring is the ideal time to prepare your caravan or motorhome for the road. Months of storage (especially in cold or damp conditions) can take a toll on seals, batteries, plumbing, and appliances. A thorough spring recommissioning not only protects your investment but also ensures safe, stress-free adventures ahead.

Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide to getting your Campervan or Motorhome ready, we have a wide range of Campervan & Motorhome care and maintenance products in store and online. 

1. Start with a Thorough Exterior Inspection

Begin with a full walk-around in daylight.

Check the bodywork and roof:

  • Look for cracks, dents, or loose trim.

  • Inspect roof seals and skylights for signs of shrinkage or splitting.

  • Examine window seals for gaps that could allow water ingress.

Clean the exterior using a caravan-safe cleaners. 

2. Inspect and Service the Battery

Winter storage is hard on leisure batteries.

Step-by-step battery check:

  1. Visually inspect terminals for corrosion.

  2. Clean terminals with a baking soda solution if needed.

  3. Check the charge level with a voltmeter.

  4. Fully recharge before reconnecting.

  5. Test onboard 12V systems (lights, water pump, control panel).

If your battery struggles to hold charge, it may be time for replacement leisure battery before the season begins.

3. Recommission the Water System

If you drained your water system before winter (as recommended), it’s time to flush and sanitise it.

Step-by-step water system refresh:

  1. Reconnect any pipes or fittings disconnected for winter.

  2. Close all drain valves.

  3. Add water sterilising solution such as Puriclean

  4. Run each tap (hot and cold) until the solution flows through.

  5. Let it sit for the recommended time.

  6. Drain and flush thoroughly with clean water.

Check carefully for leaks under sinks and around the water heater once the system is pressurised.


4. Check Gas Systems Safely

Gas systems power cooking, heating, and refrigeration in many units. Safety is essential.

  • Inspect gas hoses for cracks or brittleness.

  • Ensure regulators are securely attached.

  • Open the gas slowly and check for leaks.

  • Test each gas appliance individually.

If you’re unsure or detect any issue, have a certified technician inspect the system before use.

5. Examine Tyres and Brakes

Tyres can develop flat spots during storage.

  • Check tyre pressure and inflate to manufacturer specifications.

  • Inspect sidewalls for cracking.

  • Confirm tread depth meets legal requirements.

  • Look underneath for signs of rust or corrosion on brake components.

For caravans, ensure the hitch mechanism moves freely and lubricate as necessary.

6. Test Appliances and Electrics

Reconnect to mains power and test:

  • Refrigerator (on electric and gas modes)

  • Hob and oven

  • Heating system

  • Air conditioning (if fitted)

  • Interior and exterior lights

  • USB and 12V sockets

Give appliances time to run and verify they cool or heat properly. Replace smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector batteries if you haven’t already.

7. Refresh the Interior

After months closed up, interiors may feel stale.

  • Open windows and roof vents on a dry day to air out.

  • Wipe down surfaces with anti mold cleaner.

  • Check cupboards for damp or mildew.

  • Wash removable fabrics and cushion covers if needed.

Inspect mattresses for condensation damage and ensure no signs of pests.

8. Update Documents and Safety Equipment

Before heading out:

  • Confirm insurance and breakdown cover are active.

  • Check registration and MOT (if applicable).

  • Restock first aid kits.

  • Replace expired fire extinguishers if needed.

Also update maps or navigation systems for current routes and campsite information.

Final Road Test

For motorhomes, take a short local drive to:

  • Listen for unusual rattles.

  • Confirm steering and braking feel normal.

  • Ensure dashboard warning lights remain off.

For caravans, tow it briefly to confirm stability and braking performance.

Ready for the Season Ahead

Recommissioning your caravan or motorhome in spring is about more than routine maintenance -it’s about peace of mind. A systematic check of your exterior, water, gas, electrical, and mechanical systems reduces the risk of breakdowns and costly repairs.

With everything inspected, cleaned, and tested, you can focus on what really matters: planning your first getaway of the season and enjoying the freedom of the open road.